UCLA Bruins will compete at the Rose Bowl in 2026 instead of SoFi.

UCLA Football to Stay at Rose Bowl for 2026 Season

As UCLA football enters a new chapter under Bob Chesney, the team will continue to call the Rose Bowl home for the 2026 season.

This decision is likely to bring relief to fans, especially those who were anxious during the team’s last home game last fall, concerned about a potential farewell at the historic stadium amid talks of relocating to SoFi Stadium.

Now, supporters can start gearing up for the Bruins’ home opener against San Diego State on September 12, along with the rest of the season’s games under the new head coach.

Mary Osako, UCLA’s vice chancellor for strategic communications, shared in a statement, “UCLA will play next football season in the Rose Bowl. We understand how important game day is for the Bruins, students, alumni, and fans.” She added that their goal is to enhance the season experience for student-athletes and the community, emphasizing the positive momentum within the football program.

The decision to remain at the Rose Bowl appears to have been a collective choice by university administrators and athletic officials, considering the evolving landscape of college football.

UCLA is currently entangled in a breach of contract lawsuit initiated by the city of Pasadena and the Rose Bowl, which aims to preserve UCLA as a long-standing tenant. The plaintiffs argue that UCLA’s withdrawal from its lease, which runs through 2043, could inflict “irreparable harm” that financial compensation cannot rectify.

The two parties are set to appear in Los Angeles Superior Court on Friday to address the issue. Recently, the Rose Bowl secured a legal win when UCLA’s attempt to move the case to arbitration was rejected.

While the potential move to SoFi Stadium offers benefits—like reducing the team’s lengthy commute and providing a more modern facility—there are drawbacks as well. For instance, tailgating restrictions at SoFi are much stricter compared to the Rose Bowl, where fans appreciate the freedom to grill and enjoy ample space.

The Rose Bowl is in the midst of modernization efforts. Notably, in 2026, it will unveil a $30 million field-level club in the south end zone, featuring premium seating options.

UCLA heads into the next season with a strong recruiting class, having picked up some of the finest talent from this coaching cycle. Chesney’s previous success with James Madison, which included reaching the College Football Playoff, has stirred excitement within the football community aiming for a turnaround. Although the Bruins haven’t won a conference title since 1998, they’re hopeful Chesney can lead them to success.

For next season, season tickets are already on sale, with premium seats expected to be available soon.

The Bruins’ seven-game home schedule for 2026 includes matchups against Purdue, Wisconsin, Michigan State, Nevada, Illinois, and USC.

To boost attendance, the team plans to install large tarps in the end zones, addressing the issue of the stadium often appearing half-full. Last season, the average attendance of 37,282 was the lowest recorded since the stadium became their home in 1982.

Spring football practice is slated to begin on April 2, with the first opportunity for fans to see Chesney’s squad during the spring game on May 2, to be held at the Rose Bowl.